5 Places That Make Mauritius More Beautiful

Azure blue lagoon and pristine beaches are merely the tip of the iceberg of what Mauritius has to offer. Bustling with life, boasting unique flora and fauna and home to beautiful architecture, this place ensures you’re in for a treat. We guarantee Mauritius will make it higher up on your bucket list as we take you on this mind-blowing tour!

* Le Morne

A remnant of the volcanic past of the island, this basaltic monolith ought to make you feel humbled by its majestic flanks. Nestled at the south-western tip of the island, it is the guardian of Le Morne Brabant Peninsula, located at the foot of the mountain. Amply documented as a safe haven for maroons (runaway slaves) in the colonial era of the country, it is deeply ensconced within locals’ memories. With slaves throwing themselves from the 556-metre apex into the void to avoid being caught alive by their respective masters, the mountain is revered as a symbol against colonial oppression and a gateway to freedom. In 2008, it made it to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. It’s a thriving playground for archeologists and geologists and access has recently been granted to the public.

* Champ de Mars

To think that it is the oldest horse-racing track in the southern hemisphere is an astonishing fact in itself. Small wonder it was the venue chosen for the celebrations when Mauritius gained Independence in 1968. Established in 1812, under British colonial rule, this equestrian landmark elates punters and horse-lovers alike. Located in the capital, Port-Louis, the Champ de Mars is surrounded by a belt of volcanic mountains. Opened from March to December, the 1300-metre track welcomes jockeys and horses from all around the world every Saturday. Classics are disputed on Sundays, the most famous of them being the Maiden Cup.

* Ganga Talao

In the misty heights of the island, hidden by the dense forest and mountains, lies a lake known to locals as “Grand Bassin” (Great Pond). Due to a symbolic link it is believed to have with the Indian Ganges (Ganga), the lake (Talao) is the prime pilgrimage site for Mauritians of Hindu faith has been since 1898. The lake thrives with fish and even has an islet in the middle of it. Having several temples erected around it, it is, however, primarily known to pay tribute to Lord Shiva, who is represented by a 33-metre-tall statue, the tallest on the island.

* Port Louis Central Market

Epitomising the Victorian legacy of the British rule, the Central Market is a cardinal economic cluster in the heart of the capital city. Failing to stand the test of time, it went through a complete refurbishment in 2004. An eye-gasm guaranteed (not so much for the ears), with the fresh local produce, as well as the smell of traditional herbs, possessing medicinal proprieties. Climb up the stairs and you will discover unique local handicrafts. Make sure to heighten your bargaining skills before buying! Finish off the tour through the food court and you will have an honest taster of Mauritian society.

* Swim with dolphins

There’s no catch! Swimming with dolphins is a thing in Mauritius, notably off the western coast of the island. At dawn, with the sea already quite warm, take a dip and be welcomed by dozens of dolphins begging you to play with them. Encounters with whales are also very much possible in those waters, along with a few sharks (inoffensive). This activity is conducted by professionals to ensure the animals and their habitats are scrupulously respected.